READ ALL DIRECTIONS CAREFULLY

PREVIEW THE QUESTIONS (1Q)

• Mark key words

READ THE PASSAGE AND MARK IT (2P)

• circle subject & key words/paragraph's focus
• look for clues/signals: therefore, however, except...
• look at content words: but, however, although = opposition
• know the difference between

1. absolutes: all, always, never, none... (usually not an answer)
2. qualifiers: generally, usually, some, many (may be an answer)
• don't spend too much time on unfamiliar words
• read through passage first
• consider vocabulary in context.
• consider tone: writer's attitude toward subject, reflected through word choice/connotation; can be critical, praising, humorous, urgent, hostile, pessimistic.  In general, writer will use negative language (Leftist thugs) when attitude is negative and positive language (Humanitarian leader) when the attitude is positive.

REREAD QUESTIONS (3 Q)

• Read all answer choices before choosing best one.
• Eliminate obvious wrong answers:

1. not relevant/off topic
2. not reasonable
3. contradictory
• Consider vocabulary in context; e.g.,  superb exegesis

A. Pessimistic
B. Hostile
C. Indifferent
D. Praising
E. Faulty